Ensure 15% drivers in ride booking apps are women: HC to Raj govt
The Rajasthan High Court has recently made a landmark directive to the state government, aiming to enhance the safety and security of female passengers using ride-booking apps. The court has ordered the government to ensure that at least 15% of drivers on these platforms are women, with a target to increase this percentage to 25% over the next 2-3 years. This move is a significant step towards promoting gender equality and providing a safer environment for women commuters.
The court’s directive is a response to the growing concerns about the safety of women using ride-booking services. There have been several instances of harassment, assault, and other forms of mistreatment of female passengers by male drivers. By increasing the number of female drivers on these platforms, the court hopes to mitigate these risks and provide women with a greater sense of security and comfort while using these services.
One of the key aspects of the court’s order is the requirement for ride-booking apps to provide female passengers with the option to choose a female driver first. This feature will enable women to prioritize their safety and well-being, allowing them to select a driver who is more likely to understand and respect their needs. This option will not only enhance the overall riding experience for women but also promote a culture of inclusivity and respect within the ride-booking industry.
The court’s directive is not only a significant step towards promoting women’s safety but also a move towards promoting gender equality in the workforce. By increasing the number of female drivers on ride-booking platforms, the court is encouraging women to take up new career opportunities and challenging traditional gender stereotypes. This, in turn, will help to promote a more diverse and inclusive workforce, where women have equal opportunities to succeed and thrive.
The implementation of the court’s directive will require significant efforts from the state government and ride-booking companies. The government will need to work closely with these companies to develop and implement policies that promote the recruitment and retention of female drivers. This may involve providing training and support programs for women, as well as implementing measures to ensure their safety and well-being while on the job.
Ride-booking companies will also need to take steps to ensure that their platforms are inclusive and respectful of female drivers and passengers. This may involve developing new features and policies that promote gender equality and safety, such as the option for female passengers to choose a female driver first. Companies will also need to work closely with the government to ensure that their platforms are compliant with the court’s directive and that they are taking steps to promote a culture of respect and inclusivity.
The court’s directive is a significant step towards promoting women’s safety and gender equality in the ride-booking industry. By increasing the number of female drivers on these platforms and providing women with the option to choose a female driver first, the court is helping to create a safer and more inclusive environment for women commuters. As the ride-booking industry continues to grow and evolve, it is essential that companies and governments prioritize the safety and well-being of all passengers, regardless of their gender.
In conclusion, the Rajasthan High Court’s directive to ensure that at least 15% of drivers on ride-booking apps are women is a significant step towards promoting women’s safety and gender equality. The implementation of this directive will require significant efforts from the state government and ride-booking companies, but it has the potential to create a safer and more inclusive environment for women commuters. As we move forward, it is essential that we continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of all passengers, regardless of their gender, and work towards creating a more inclusive and respectful ride-booking industry.
News Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/legal-news/drivers-ride-booking-apps-women-high-court-rajasthan-govt-10392888/lite/
About the Author
